Our Lady of the Rosary London Diocesan Shrine

Announcing The Rosarians

The Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary Diocesan Shrine in Merlin was blessed with a new Director on July 1st, 2010. His name is Fr. Francis Jeyaseelan from the Congregation of the Rosarians. He is assisted by two other priests of his order, Fr. John and Fr. Anthony. Their order is based in Sri Lanka, and they have approximately 250 priests in their order in India and Sri Lanka.

Rosarians differ from diocesan priest’s in that they are a monastic, contemplative order. They have an ordered day of praying the daily liturgy, Mass, contemplation of Sacred Scripture, Exposition of the Holy Eucharist, work, and a rest period.

Father Francis said we are the first foundation outside of India and Sri Lanka. A foundation is a place of residence, and the Diocese of London is the first diocese to invite them to set up a home and community. The sense of peace, beauty, and faith they felt when they first walked on the grounds of the Shrine, they feel will strengthen and support their community. Father Francis said that he was happy with the response and acceptance that the parishioners and pilgrims to the Shrine has shown to himself and his brother priests. They look forward to serving the needs of the parish and the pilgrims to the Shrine.

As a community of St. Patrick’s parish, we feel blessed that the Congregation of the Rosarians have agreed to minister to the community and to the Shrine. We feel the Blessed Mother had some influence in the coming to the Rosarians to the Shrine. Many pilgrims are amazed that this order, from half way around the world, called the Rosarians, have agreed to set up their first home in Canada here at the Shrine. This is one of those times when truly we marvel at how God works in mysterious ways! We hope for a long and fruitful relationship.

If you need further information, visit their website or contact Father Francis Jeyaseelan, Director of Our Lady of the Rosary Diocesan Shrine at St. Patrick’s Church at 519-689-7760.

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St. Michael’s Gift Cabin

St. Michael’s Gift Cabin is located beside the south side of the garage. It is handicap accessible. Many of the religious items that pilgrims have requested over the years are on sale. Rosaries, religious books, medallions, bottled water and other items are offered for sale. The proceeds are donated for the upkeep of the shrine and the Rosarian Priests.

If a visitor to the Shrine would like an item that is not carried in stock, it can be ordered in for you. Please let Angie or Denise know what you are looking for, and they will do their best to help you.

The gift cabin is open during Shrine days and all year round. For store hours contact Father Francis, at the Shrine, or Anita, at the parish office, at 519-689-7760.